TED: How we're harnessing nature's hidden superpowers | Oded Shoseyov

The video discusses the challenges of human-made materials compared to nature's perfected materials over billions of years. It highlights the potential of nanocrystalline cellulose, a strong material made from sugar, and the efforts to produce it industrially without harming the environment. The video also explores resilin, an elastic protein from insects, and its applications. It further explains the innovative production of human collagen from transgenic tobacco plants for medical use. The future of biomaterials is envisioned to improve machines and medical implants, emphasizing the importance of learning from nature's evolutionary processes.

What are the main reasons for the mechanical failures of machines and buildings as mentioned in the text?

How does the text describe the time nature has had to perfect materials compared to human efforts?

What is nanocrystalline cellulose and why is it considered important?

What challenges are faced in sourcing nanocellulose for commercial use?

Explain the significance of resilin as described in the text.

What innovative approach is being taken to produce human collagen using plants?

Discuss the potential applications of the new materials mentioned in the text.

What are the environmental implications of producing nanocellulose from paper industry sludge?

How does the text illustrate the concept of self-assembly in nature?

What future advancements in biomaterials does the text suggest?